The musical drama "Empire" has been renewed for a sixth season, and production will return to Chicago, Fox network representatives announced Tuesday.

What's even more weird about this is that by extending Jussie's option for the show's sixth season, they would likely have to pay him for the contract.

Smollett, 36, who is black and gay, ignited a firestorm by telling police on January 29 that two apparent supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump struck him, put a noose around his neck and poured bleach over him while yelling racist and homophobic slurs on a Chicago street.

The announcement, made Tuesday evening, should have been obvious, considering the show's performance, but it did contain a significant caveat: starJussie Smollett and his character, Jamal Lyon, are not set to return.

Smollett was spotted vacationing in Hawaii earlier this month after he had 16 felony disorderly conduct charges dropped against him in Chicago for his alleged role in a hate-crime scandal. "Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and Empireleadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support", his rep said in a statement (via Variety). "We know there are so many more stories to tell, and we can't wait to see what they have in store for season six".

On April 11, the City of Chicago filed a $130,000 lawsuit against the 36-year-old actor in order to recoup the cost of the police investigation. We want to thank everyone on the show... all of whom have done a tremendous job this season.

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